KTM Duke 390

The KTM 390 Duke has been THE benchmark in the Indian motorcycle market for the past 10 years, blending incredible performance with a relatively affordable price tag. With the introduction of the Gen-3 iteration, KTM promises even more excitement and practicality. Let's delve into the specifics to see if it lives up to the hype.

Design & Colours

The new Duke 390 sports an aggressive design that looks quite aggressive, and bulkier in comparison to the previous two generations. While some might find this new design a little too much, the bike's overall appearance is undeniably striking. However, some may find the colour schemes, particularly the three distinct shades of orange in the signature KTM Orange colourway, a tad overwhelming. The Blue colourway on the other hand looks really handsome. Build quality, while generally satisfactory, shows room for improvement in certain areas, with noticeable gaps and inconsistencies in some plastic panels.

Engine, Performance & Mileage

Powered by a revamped 399cc engine, the Gen-3 Duke delivers an impressive 46PS and 39Nm of torque, making it one of the most potent bikes in its class. Notably, the enhanced mid-range performance ensures exhilarating acceleration and effortless overtaking, especially beyond 5,000rpm. In our testing, the 390 Duke managed to accelerate from 0-100kmph in 5.91 seconds  - making it one of the quickest bikes we’ve tested. Despite its peaky nature, the engine exhibits improved tractability in city conditions, offering smoother low-speed manoeuvrability and respectable fuel efficiency figures, outperforming some competitors in this regard. In the city, the KTM Duke 390 managed to deliver an efficiency of 25.26kmpl and on the highway it delivered 29.64kmpl.

Handling, Braking & Ride Quality

Renowned for its exceptional handling, the 390 Duke continues to impress with its agility and responsiveness. The updated chassis, coupled with a lighter overall weight, contributes to sharper handling and enhanced manoeuvrability. Adjustable suspension settings provide versatility to tailor the ride experience to individual preferences. But even the stock settings of the suspension strike a balance between comfort and performance. However, some riders may find the stock Metzeler Sportec M5 H-rated tyres slightly lacking in grip, particularly at extreme lean angles. Braking performance from the new Duke is excellent, with the 320mm front disc with its radial calliper being able to haul the bike from 80kmph to a full stop in just 30.77m.

Comfort

Contrary to expectations for a sport-oriented bike, the KTM Duke 390 prioritizes rider comfort without compromising performance. Ample seating space and an ergonomic posture accommodate riders of various heights, instilling confidence during prolonged rides. The suspension setup, adjustable to suit different road conditions, ensures a comfortable and stable ride, even on bumpy surfaces.

Features

Equipped with an array of modern features, the new Duke offers a comprehensive riding experience. From a redesigned TFT display to intuitive switchgear and customizable riding modes, the bike integrates cutting-edge technology seamlessly. Noteworthy additions include cornering ABS, traction control, and a quickshifter, enhancing safety and convenience on the road. While some features might be a bit tricky to use, they undoubtedly improve the overall premium feel of the motorcycle.

Should you buy the KTM Duke 390?

The 2024 KTM 390 Duke represents a significant evolution of the iconic model, combining increased performance with improved practicality. Despite minor issues with its design and some slight build quality problems like inconsistent panel gaps, the bike delivers an exciting riding experience suitable for both daily commutes and spirited rides. Priced competitively at Rs 3.10 lakh, it offers exceptional value for enthusiasts seeking a versatile and dynamic ride. If you prioritize performance, advanced features, and undeniable fun factor, the KTM Duke 390 is probably the best choice in its segment.